(ANIMAL SCIENCE) We hate to break it to you, but your cat might not like that Radiohead CD you always play. Scientists have been able to pinpoint what types of music different animals prefer, and surprisingly it has more to do with the size of the animal than their relative temperament. Read more to find out if your pooch is more partial to metal or Mozart. — Global Animal
(ANIMAL SCIENCE) Your kitty might stare at you when you’re enjoying a big bowl of ice cream, but scientists suggest that domestic cats and their carnivorous cousins, like lions and tigers, have lost the ability to taste anything sweet. It’s a genetic mutation that other animals don’t share, since finding and tasting carbohydrates is essential for survival in omnivorous animals. Carnivores, however, can survive without. Read more to find out which animals do, or don’t have these sweet-sensing genes. — Global Animal
(ANIMAL DISCOVERY) ALASKA — This brown bear was tired of waiting for a spa day, so he took matters into his own giant paws. Researchers caught him on camera as he used a barnacle covered rock, much like a bar of soap, to scrub his own face. As the first recorded act of tool use by brown bears, could this sighting mean that the species is more advanced than scientists originally thought? Read more to find out. — Global Animal
(ANIMAL DISCOVERY) The Eurasian Roller, a small, bright blue bird, has a strange defense mechanism. When frightened, their offspring throw up on themselves. Read on to find out about these fascinating birds, and what scientists say are the reasons behind their strange survival method. — Global Animal
(ANIMAL NEWS) In the future, going to the zoo could be a blast from the past, literally. At the “Symposium on the Future of Zoos” scientists discussed creating Jurassic Park-style “cageless” habitats, robotic animals, and zoos filled with cloned extinct animals. Read on for more of what the future might hold, and let us know what you think! — Global Animal
(NEW SPECIES) AUSTRALIA — Researchers discovered a previously unknown species of sea snake living near the rocky seafloor in Australian waters. Scientists have named the highly venomous snake Hydrophis donaldi, and their dangerous defenses aren’t only limited to their bite; strong, spiny scales cover their bodies. The habitat they live in suggests the reason for their scales and coloration, using camouflage to protect themselves from other predatory animals. This new sea snake is extremely rare, and scientists have just started learning about their mysterious physique. Read on for the details on this surprising new discovery. — Global Animal
(SHARK FIN SOUP) Shark fin soup is obviously harmful for sharks, but new findings show consuming it is harmful to humans as well. Read on to find out more on dangerous toxins found in the soup!
(ANIMAL RESEARCH) Most students dread the day when they must dissect an animal for biology class. Although the practice has become less common in schools, the discussion continues over whether the educational benefit of dissections outweighs the damaging effects on the development of empathy and compassion in children. In this preview from her upcoming book Raising Kids Who Love Animals, child psychiatrist Dr. Sujatha Ramakrishna discusses why animal dissections in schools and universities do more harm than good. — Global Animal
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